Tuesday, June 16, 2015

Thank you for contacting me regarding torture and the Central Intelligence Agency's guidelines for human experimentation. I appreciate hearing from you.

Following the release of a previously classified agency document, news reports have raised questions about the CIA's use of enhanced interrogation techniques in light of the agency's guidelines regarding research on human subjects.

I have been highly critical of the CIA's detention and interrogation program and have repeatedly questioned its legality. In 2004, I authored the first legislation to make clear that the cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment of detainees is illegal under United States law in all circumstances. My legislation responded to the then-Administration's position that it was legal to use abusive interrogation techniques on detainees.

Thank you again for contacting me. I will keep your concerns in mind as this issue is considered by Congress. Please feel free to keep in touch.

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

I am currently co-sponsoring House Bill 217 to ensure that the mental health of young people is not harmed by dangerous conversation therapies. The American Medical Association, the American Psychiatric Association, the American Academy of Pediatricians, and numerous other medical, professional, and not-for-profit groups reject conversion therapy for youth as well.

House Bill 217 passed committee and is awaiting a full House floor vote.

Again, thank you for contacting me about this very important issue. I appreciate your feedback and hope that you will contact me if you would like to discuss this or any other issue facing the state.